GETTING READY FOR WINTER IN THE fall, with the arrival of cooler weather, motorists often turn their attention to getting their cars ready for winter driving. Do-it-yourselfers seem to have no problems -— indeed, they relish the opportunity of popping the hood and going to work. But, due to ever-changing tech- nology, many people would rather have a mechanic check out their car and perform any necessary relic repairs and service — if only fin- ding good, competent auto repair weren’t so chancy. Fortunately, finding a good auto mechanic need not be a guessing game. Experts offer the following tips. *® Don’t go it alone: Ask your friends, relatives and business associates for the names of shops they recommend. A consensus is more convincing than the advice of HAVE A SHOWROOM SHINE Preserve car’s PERHAPS THE easiest and most gratifying job that do-it- yourselfers can perform is main- taining a car’s finish. In fact, preserving a showroom shine will not only prolong the life of a finish, but also boost the resale value of the car. Here are some tips on how to achieve that sought-after shine from the experts: . © Washing the Car — It’s a good idea to wash the car before applying the wax. For best results, always wash and wax in the shade. Generally, a mild detergent is most effective, because it can be used on various types of finishes, yet is strong enough to remove ac- cumulated mud, road salt, insects and dirt. *® Choosing a Wax -~- Now that one person. ® Use local consumer groups: Your Better Business Bureau or similar consumer organization can tell you if the shop in question has many complaints lodged against it. They also should be able to tell you what constitutes an excessive number of complaints, and whether or not the complaints have been resolved. * Look for signs of profes- finish the car is sparkling clean, it's time to choose a wax. It’s important to use a wax that will remove sucn residue as oxidized paint, road film and tar, but be gentle enough not to scratch the surface. © Regular Washing and Waxing is Crucial — Ultimately, the way to keep a car looking new is to begin the process of maintenance before signs of deterioration set in. 33 ~ Friday, October 28, 1988 - North Shore News sionalism: For example, are there such things as «customer service awards, certificates of apprecia- tion, civic awards, etc., on the walls? What about evidence of technical competence? Employers often will post their technicians’ credentials in the customer service area, © Look for organization: Does the shop appear to be orderly and relatively clean, and free of clutter and old parts? It doesn’t have to be hospital clean, simply tidy and well-maintained. © Get involved: Start by reading your owner’s manual -— even if you never intend to do the actual repairs yourself. Be certain to have your vehicle serviced according to the manufac- turer’s recommended intervals as stated in the manual. If you do, your car probably will last longer. Keep a record of your repairs. Many manuals leave a page or two blank for that purpose. © Look for. shop policies: Are the policies concerning labor rates, guarantees, estimates, etc., posted in the customer service area? If All-Season Performance for Imports and Domestic Subcompacts. SIERRA ALL-SEASON RADIAL® - Computer designed all-weather tread for sure-footed traction. ride and long mileage. * Engineered for high performance feel, smooth + European sizing and styling. i a CT Blackwall or raised white letters (70 series) 165SR13 175/7OSRI3 185/70SRI3 185/70S414 195/70SRI4 DEEB ALESSA Mr. George Ghattas, General Sales Manager of Plaza Lincoln Mercury, is pleased to announce the appoint- ment of Deeb Alessa as Fleet and Lease Manager. Deeb extends a warm invitation to his friends and many customers on the North Shore, to take advantage of our successful Grand Opening Specials on the fine Lincoln, Mercury cars and Ford trucks. Call Deeb at 986-4291 1695 MARINE DR., NORTH VANCOUVER $3 | Steel Belted Winter Radial Built for winter. S speed-rated. Distinctively styled. ° Aggressive, open tread design for sure- footed traction in snow and mud. © Polyester body and two steel belts pro- vide strength for long life and smooth, Bg comfortable ride. Radial construction with Low Rolling Resistance tread compound provides superior fuel savings over non-ra tires. 175/70SRI3 fs) speed-rated for speeds up to 185/70SRI13 112 mph (180 km). 185/7OSRI4 PY fi 195/70SRI14 they are unclear or not posted at all, is someone willing to explain them to your satisfaction? © Stay involved: You can help the repair process by describing your car’s symptoms. Use precise language. Don’t try to diagnose the problem or insist upon a specific repair. For example, do not rush in and say, ‘‘I need a complete tune-up.” Instead, describe how the car is running — how it feels or sounds or -handles, Let the experts make the final diagnosis, based upon your input, comments and obser- vations. . © Remember, you’re. the boss: Admittedly, your technical ability is no match for the experts, but beware of any shop that does not welcome your comments. If no one seems to listen, or if you feel yourself being rushed, take your business to a more reputable establishment. Mutual respect is the name of the game today. Yesterday’s shade tree amateurs have been replaced by professional shops, with up- to-date equipment, professional technicians and courteous service.